Needle Biopsy

Reasons for Procedure

This biopsy is used to evaluate organ or tumor tissue. The sample may show abnormal cells, disease, infection, or inflammation.

FNB may also be done to find out how certain treatments are working.

Possible Complications

Complications are rare, but no procedure is completely free of risk. The potential complications will depend on the location of the biopsy. Your doctor will review a list of possible complications, which may include:

You will be positioned for the easiest access to the area for biopsy. The area where the needle will be inserted will be cleaned. Anesthesia will be applied to numb the area. You will be asked to stay still. A thin, hollow needle will then be inserted through the skin to the site. The needle may need to be inserted more than once. The images may be checked to make sure the needle is in the right place. After the needle is in the proper position, tissue or fluid will be withdrawn. You may feel a pinch, pressure, or nothing at all. After your doctor has the sample, the needle will be removed. The site will be bandaged.

The length of procedure will depend on the site that is sampled:

Simple biopsy of a site that is close to the surface of the skin: a few minutes in most cases

Deeper biopsy or one that is guided by an ultrasound or CT scan: 30-90 minutes

The amount of discomfort you feel depends on the part of the body that is being examined. The anesthesia and sedative will prevent pain. You may feel a pinch or pressure. If you feel pain, tell the doctor right away.

After the procedure, the site will be tender. Talk to your doctor about medication to help manage discomfort.

Be sure to follow your doctor’s
instructions. In general, you should take it easy and check the insertion site.

The sample will be examined by a specialist. The results are usually ready in a few days. Your doctor will talk to you about the results.

Call Your Doctor

After arriving home, contact your doctor if any of the following occurs:

Signs of infection, including fever and chills

Pain, redness, swelling, heat, discharge, or a red streak in the area of the needle insertion

Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.